Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has denied claims that his administration is negotiating with bandits. He maintained that the government seeks peace through community-led initiatives, not through deals with criminals.
Radda spoke during the inauguration of 100 new officers of the Community Watch Corps, known as C-Watch, in Katsina. The officers will expand security operations to 20 of the state’s 34 local government areas, improving grassroots vigilance.
During the passing-out ceremony of the third C-Watch batch, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to ending banditry across the state. He described the alleged peace meeting with bandits as false and politically motivated.
“The headlines say the Katsina State Government is negotiating with bandits, but that is far from reality,” Radda said. “We will not negotiate with bandits, but we will always welcome peace.”
He explained that the Katsina Model encourages communities to lead peacebuilding efforts with repentant bandits who surrender their arms. According to him, the government only provides support while ensuring law and order.
He added that communities achieving peace will also enjoy better development and economic progress. Such growth, he said, promotes dignity and long-term stability.
The governor highlighted the success of local peace efforts. Jibia has recorded eight months without a major attack, while Batsari has enjoyed seven months of calm. Likewise, Danmusa, Safana, Faskari, and Sabuwa have also experienced improved security.
He noted that these results show peace is possible when communities take charge of their safety. He encouraged other local governments to adopt similar strategies for lasting harmony.
Radda also stated that the Community Watch Corps was created to assist formal security agencies and tackle banditry directly. He recalled that when the corps launched over two years ago, the state faced widespread insecurity and fear.
Even so, his administration remained focused on restoring peace and fulfilling campaign promises. He emphasized that the people’s trust remains a top priority for his government.
The governor concluded that community participation and law enforcement must work hand in hand.
He finally reaffirmed that the people of Katsina deserve lasting peace, dignity, and prosperity. He called for unity, stressing that the state’s future depends on collective responsibility and shared determination.
